McDonnell applies for ability to toll I-95 at N.C. border

Gov. Bob McDonnell said Virginia has filed an application with the Federal Highway Adminsitration to toll Interstate 95 near the North Carolina border.

McDonnell said toll revenue be from $1 to $2 per axle, generating an estimated $30 million to $60 million each year. The revenue would be used exclusively for improvements along the 95 corridor.

The money would first go to safety improvements, and then pavement and infrastructure projects. Once these needs have been met, capacity issues would be addressed.

Secretary of Transportation Sean T. Connaughton submitted the request under the Interstate System Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Pilot Program. Virginia has permission to toll on Interstate 81 under the program, which Virginia is asking to switch to I-95.